Deadly 24 hours in Minneapolis highlights ‘failed leadership’: fmr. AG nominee

A wave of violence swept through Minneapolis last week, with six people killed and five others injured in a series of shootings within just 24 hours. The tragic incidents have once again brought attention to the city’s struggles with crime and policing, with many pointing to what they believe to be the root causes of the violence.

Jim Schultz, the 2022 Minnesota attorney general Republican nominee, spoke out about the shootings, attributing them to “years of anti-police rhetoric and failed leadership.” Schultz criticized city officials for demonizing law enforcement, slashing police budgets, and failing to prosecute criminals effectively, leading to a sense of lawlessness on the streets of Minneapolis.

The arrest of James Ortley, an alleged gang member, in connection with a mass shooting on April 29 that left four dead and two injured, highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in the city. Authorities are investigating whether some of the shootings are connected, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing violence in Minneapolis.

Schultz pointed to the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder in 2020 as a turning point for the city, with Minneapolis becoming a focal point for the “defund the police” movement. He noted that police staffing remains below adequate levels, morale is low, and criminals feel emboldened due to what he described as a lack of support for law enforcement.

The Hennepin County prosecutor, Mary Moriarty, came under scrutiny for her handling of criminal cases, with critics accusing her of being too lenient on violent offenders. Ortley, the suspect in the mass shooting, has a lengthy criminal history, including charges of DWIs, aggravated robbery, and illegal possession of a firearm. Despite these charges, some cases against him were dismissed or resulted in lenient sentences.

Schultz called for a change in approach, urging Hennepin County to abandon what he described as “far-left bizarre policies” and instead focus on holding criminals accountable and ensuring public safety. He emphasized the importance of putting violent criminals behind bars for the sake of victims and the community at large.

The Department of Justice recently announced an investigation into the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office over allegations of considering race in plea negotiations with criminal defendants. The investigation will focus on whether the office engaged in illegal practices that deprived individuals of their rights and privileges under the Constitution.

As Minneapolis grapples with the aftermath of the recent shootings, calls for reform and accountability continue to be at the forefront of the conversation. It remains to be seen how city officials and law enforcement will address the underlying issues that have contributed to the violence, but many are hopeful that meaningful change can be achieved to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.